The fourth edition of Global Bio-India 2024 has successfully wrapped up, showcasing the impressive capabilities of India’s biotechnology sector. Organized by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science and Technology, Government of India, in collaboration with its Public Sector Undertaking, the BIRAC, the event took place from September 12th to 14th at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.
The annual conference, inaugurated by Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Department of Atomic Energy, and Space, as well as Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions, marked a significant gathering of biotechnology stakeholders from both national and international spheres.
This three-day event represented the largest assembly of biotech professionals in the country, reflecting the event’s prominence and scope. The theme of Global Bio-India 2024 focused on the immense potential and opportunities within ‘Biotech Innovation’ and ‘Bio-manufacturing,’ emphasizing their impact on the bioeconomy.
During the valedictory session, notable developments included the exchange of Letters of Intent between BIRAC and the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation, alongside IPE Global, establishing co-funding partnerships to drive future initiatives. A standout feature of the event was the spotlight on Indian biotech startups, which took center stage with the presentation of 11 groundbreaking products.
These innovations highlighted the burgeoning talent and creativity within India’s biosciences sector. The conference also celebrated exceptional contributions to the biotech industry with a series of prestigious awards. The categories included the BIRAC Innovators Awards, Best Startup Exhibitor Awards, Best Incubator Exhibitor Awards, and the BioE3 Competition Awards.
These accolades recognized outstanding achievements and advancements in the field. Additionally, the ceremony witnessed the launch of Calls for Proposals under the esteemed i4 (Innovation for Industry) and PACE (Promoting Academic Collaboration and Entrepreneurship) programs, underscoring the government’s dedication to nurturing innovation and fostering entrepreneurial growth.
Prof V. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor of Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani and Former Director of IIT-Delhi, served as the Guest of Honor. He underscored the necessity for India to establish organizational models akin to BIRAC for emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and quantum technology.
Prof Rao also emphasized the importance of supporting deep tech startups led by PhDs and academic faculty, urging institutions to promote entrepreneurial ventures. In a heartfelt tribute, Prof Rao honored the late Dr M.K. Bhan, the visionary behind BIRAC, acknowledging his pivotal role in shaping India’s biotech sector.
The valedictory session saw participation from Dr Rajesh S. Gokhale, Secretary of DBT, DG of iBRIC, Chairman of BIRAC; Dr Alka Sharma, Senior Adviser, Scientist ‘H’ at DBT; Dr G.S. Krishnan, President of ABLE; Dr Jitendra Kumar, MD of BIRAC; and Ms Shilpy Kochhar, Head of Business Development & Communications at BIRAC.
They collectively expressed their gratitude to all participants, speakers, panellists, partners, and organizers. Global Bio-India 2024 demonstrated India’s substantial potential in the biotech sector, showcasing its advancements both domestically and to the global audience. The event set a clear path for propelling biotech innovation and bio-manufacturing in the country, marking a significant milestone in India’s biotech journey.
